PNG Agri Connect program launched

PM James Marape and World Bank Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific, Carlos Felipe Jaramillo (Infront) and IFC Vice President for Asia and Pacific, Sarvesh Suriwalking (at the back), welcomed at Goroka airport yesterday *(Image: NBC News)*

Prime Minister James Marape and World Bank Vice President East Asia and Pacific Felipe Jaramillo have officially launched the PNG Agri Connect Program at University of Goroka in Eastern Highlands Province.

The program is a US$250 million [about K1 billion] collaboration with the World Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, International Fund for Agricultural Development, International Finance Corporation, and other partners aimed at enhancing PNG's agricultural industry.

PM Marape, joined by Felipe Jaramillo and IFC Vice President for Asia Pacific Sarvesh Suri, emphasized that AgriConnect links farmers, entrepreneurs, and agribusinesses nationwide, aligning with the National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024–2033.

He reaffirmed his government's commitment to agriculture, highlighting its potential to create one million sustainable livelihoods and drive PNG's economic progress.

The event at the University of Goroka drew attendance from ministers, provincial leaders, farmers, students, and private sector reps.

The delegation met with smallholder farmers and agribusinesses, visiting Last Malo Coffee Factory to explore ways to improve market linkages and income.